From 21 to 24 October 2024, UNAM’s School of Accounting brought its vision of academic excellence to the Zambezi Region through a series of school outreach visits. Led by Dr. Tia Chata, a lecturer at the Main Campus, and supported by Ms. Karen Mubonenwa, Communications and Marketing Officer from the Katima Mulilo Campus, the initiative aimed to connect with grade 11 and 12 learners, spotlighting the academic and career opportunities available at UNAM.
Accompanied by four SRC representatives from the Katima Mulilo Campus, the team visited schools such as Kizito College, located near Katima Mulilo, and Sikosinyana Senior Secondary School, approximately 60 kilometres away. Their mission was clear: to provide learners with comprehensive information about UNAM’s academic programmes, with a special focus on the versatile and rewarding field of accounting.
Reflecting on the trip, Dr. Tia Chata emphasised the importance of these engagements: “Reaching out to learners in rural and urban schools alike ensures that UNAM remains accessible to all Namibians. The enthusiasm we witnessed reinforces the value of education in shaping their futures. We are not just presenting programmes – we’re inspiring dreams and possibilities.”
The outreach included dynamic presentations, the distribution of informational brochures, and interactive Q&A sessions. Learners eagerly engaged with the team, asking about admission requirements, scholarship opportunities, and potential career paths.
At Sikosinyana Senior Secondary School, the interest was particularly palpable, with learners expressing a desire to join Namibia’s leading academic institution.
A grade 11 learner at Sikosinyana Senior Secondary School, shared her thoughts: “This visit has been eye-opening. Learning about accounting and how it can open doors to so many industries was inspiring. It showed me that studying at UNAM can help me achieve my goals and contribute to my community here back home.”
In addition to learners, school principals and teachers actively participated in discussions, showing their support for UNAM’s outreach efforts. They highlighted the importance of regular engagements to keep students informed about higher education opportunities.
A Katima Mulilo SRC representative, who joined the outreach team, remarked on the impact of the experience: “As a student myself, it was fulfilling to see the spark in learners’ eyes when they realised what UNAM could offer them. Being part of this initiative reminded me why I chose to study here and the opportunities it has given me.”
The outreach team’s efforts left a lasting impression, with school leaders urging UNAM to expand similar initiatives to additional schools across Namibia. This event not only strengthened the connection between UNAM and the Zambezi Region but also emphasised the University’s devotion to making education accessible and inclusive.
Through outreach like this, UNAM continues to uphold its mission of empowering Namibia’s youth to dream big, aim high, and achieve success via higher education pursuit.
